Pay Hike On Commission Agenda

MARGATE — City commissioners are considering a $2,500 yearly pay hike for themselves, but it can only be officially approved later this year.

"A very, very small amount" is how Commissioner Joe Varsallone characterized the raise. "It's justified."

The increase, if approved, would hike the mayor's annual salary from $16,300 to $18,800; the vice mayor's salary from $15,800 to $18,300; and the other three commissioners' salaries from $15,500 to $18,000.

Under city rules, however, commissioners may only raise their salaries as part of an amendment to the annual budget, done close to the end of the fiscal year, said city clerk Debra DorM-i. The proposed pay hike could be discussed again in August or September. The measure must pass on two public readings.

Varsallone said it's possible that if the commission approves the raises, it may make them retroactive.

The commissioner was sensitive to possible criticism about the increase, but said he and his colleagues, though they may hold day jobs, still dedicate much of their free time to city issues. They attend meetings, field numerous calls from residents and often are asked to speak before civic organizations.

"They're spending a hell of a lot of time out there, all of them," Varsallone said. "It's not a part-time job."

In neighboring Coconut Creek, generally recognized as a larger and more prosperous city, city commissioners get paid $6,000 a year.

But they also receive $800 a month for expenses, bringing their total annual compensation to $15,600.

Varsallone said critics of the possible pay hike are welcome to their opinions.

"If anybody thinks ill about it, that's their own prerogative," he said.